Most 20-year-olds (myself included) commonly think to themselves, “I’ll start getting my life together when I turn 30.” Clinical PsychologistMeg Jay had something to say about that and her words slapped reality right across my face. Today I watched her TED talk and was captivated by the stories of her patients and spoke truthfully about why 30 is not the new 20. Here were three points she highlighted that all us 20-somethings need to hear:

1) Identity capital
Do something that adds value to who you are. Invest in yourself. Go ahead and volunteer, take that cross-country job, and start doing something that your 30-year-old self will thank you for later.

2) Utilize your weak ties
Weak ties = friends of friends of friends. Get to know people outside your inner circle because those people might have the opportunities you may be searching for. One conversation with someone outside your inner circle could get you that job, a great tour suggestion for your next vacation, or perhaps could set you up with your future hubby.

3)  Pick your family
Do not just make it work or kill time with people that are in your life right now. If you want them in your life, keep ’em. If you do not, leave ’em. It’s harsh advice but motivational speaker Jim Rohn even said, “we are the average of the five people we spend the most time with.” Spend time with quality people who inspire you, cheer for you, and are as ambitious and wonderful as you are.